SYSEN 5230

Energy Efficiency in the Circular Economy

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

On a net-zero emissions pathway, energy efficiency is a key component. This course discusses different angles to tackle energy efficiency, from energy-efficient technologies to energy and resource-efficient systems. Working with various sectors and case examples, students learn how to address energy efficiency within different systems' boundaries, tracking energy and resources in the circular economy. Students learn how to promote energy efficiency using a system approach and identifying entry points for building a circular economy. The course is designed for students from different backgrounds interested in the multiple dimensions of energy efficiency and implementation of a circular economy, particularly those from engineering.

Enrollment Priority REF-FA25 Open to: Systems Engineering students.

Last 4 terms offered (None)

Outcomes REF-FA25

• Explain and contrast energy efficiency improvement potentials at unit and system levels. (i.e. product level, plant level, infrastructure system level).
• Analyze synergies between energy and material flows in the circular economy (as opposed to the linear economy).
• Define energy efficiency potentials and constraints using the circular economy framework.
• Explain system boundaries to explore energy efficiency in different sectors and propose actions for energy efficiency improvements.
• Critically review energy efficiency options considering multiple criteria including potential energy efficiency improvements at different levels, stakeholder perspectives, and contributions to the circular economy.

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